The Memphis appeal. [volume] (Memphis, Tenn.) 1886-1890, 1887-05-01
REV. DR.. GEORGE Wits
DEATH OF THE VENERABLE REC.
TOR EMERITUS
or Calvary Church-A Long and Use-
full Career Closed Lessons OF
a Life Well Spent

OuTlbtlhub anu bluUtIb hllk6 Will DN
deeply panied to learn OF the death oil
the Rev. Dr. George White, which
occurred a. 2:30 o'clelk Yesterday al.
ternoon at bis residence, No. 26S Vance
street. For nearly three years the
venerable gentleman has been con.
fined TO his bed, and death came az
a sweet relief. While his m assive intel
lect burned on brightly as in days Of
yore, even up to the dying mo-
ment, the once strong and robust
frame had become sasly emaciated.
The ruthless hand OF age and decay
had been feeding upon him 80 long
that only mere skeleton remained.
His last moments on earth were made
as comfortable and soothing as posi-
BILE by his two Borrowing daughters, q
few intimate friends and neighbors
joining the silent watchers in their
tender ministrations. DR.. White ex.
pired in a sublime and beautiful reali-
ya'ion OF the faith earnestly preached
for 30 many years, and without
any perpetual struggle. Having
almost reached the four score years
and ten allotted to man, he interposei
no objection to the dispensation OF
his Master, but rs'her appeared anx'
ious to depart. This was only mani.
tested by his looks and manners as the
power OF speech forsook him over two
months ago. Due notice Of the funeral
will be given.
DR.. George White was born at
Charleston, y. O., March II, 1902. His
parents were comparatively poor, but
honest, straightforward and indus
trious, with true Christian piety
marking their every act and endeavor,
Members of the Methodist Episcopal
church, their son was reared in an at
mosphere Of this faith, and manifested
a strong inclination to become identl-
fed with Its ministry. No obstacle was
thrown in the path of his realization
of this deep seste d desire, and at the
esrly age OF eighteen years he was or
dained and licensed to preach the Cos
pei. He created fine impression
wherever heard, aud 80 n became
widely known as tho "beardless
preacher" Becoming disFa fl d with
the form OF government prevailing in
the Methodist Church, he shortly
afterward deserted its ranks and
espoused the doctrines Of the Rpisco.
pal Church. His first rectorsh'p in
that branch Of tho Chrieiian church
was in q Georgia town, where he
eiv d with marked distinction and
success until 1850, when he removed
To M mphis to take charge OF Calvary
At that lime 1t was small congrega-
ton, struggling for existence,
bnt faithful and earnest. Un.
der his guidance the church grew
and enlarged its sphere Of action, un-
ill now it stands lasting monument
to his fidelity, ability and self sacri flc-
ing endeavors. He continued active
service as rector until some three years
ago, when his feeble condition warned
him and his friends that relief must
be afforded. The Rev. Davis Sessums,
remarkably bright aud talented
young minister, was thereupon in
stalled as assistant, In which ca
pscity he served for about
one year. DR.. Whites physical
decline then rendered absolute retire
ment necessary, and the Office OF Rec.
tor Emeritus was conferred, Mr.. Ses-
Gums being advanced to the vacancy.
Rector and people did everything pos
sible for the venerable and beloved in.
valid, watching over and protecting
him with tho same degree Of sole.
itude and devotion ~ though he
were an infant confded to their
care. He fingered loving
charge uAtil the rectorship OF his
young and brilliant successor termi.
mated, and DR.. Spruille Burford WAS
called from New York TO act Is spirit
ual adviser and guide. On several
during his last protracted
illness, reports spread abroad that he
was nearing the end, but the best
medical attendance and careful nurs-
ing continued the spark OF life.
HIS devoted wife m'nlstered to his
every want until called from earth
some two and a half years ago. His
life was a beautiful and consisl emit one,
and the reCollectlons Of 1t, together
with the works which survive him,
will perpetuate his memory for years
TO come. Two daughters, Mrs. Laura
Leath, and Miss Talula White, OF this
city, aud a son, residing in New York,
are the only remaining members OF
his immediate family. In their sore
bereavement they have the heartfelt
Of the entire community.